The Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) is adopting advanced technologies to tackle corruption in its operations. Among these measures are smart meters, new connection technology, and use of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) software,innovations aim to streamline service delivery and minimise chances for corrupt practices. The 15th edition of Rwanda Bribery Index (RBI), released by Transparency International Rwanda (TI-Rwanda) in December 2024, reported a 5.9% corruption prevalence rate at WASAC. Following this, the utility was summoned to Parliament, on January 13, over issues highlighted by a related Ombudsman’s Office report. ALSO READ: WASAC Group mulls ways to reduce non-revenue water losses One of the primary concerns highlighted was the high level of human interaction between WASAC staff and customers during field operations, including new water connections and repairs. This interaction has been flagged as a major enabler of corruption. As noted, WASAC is yet to implement new systems that eliminate direct contact between staff and customers. ALSO READ: Water utility to rein in on corrupt staff “The report identified two primary instances where corruption occurs,” said Omar Munyaneza, the CEO of WASAC Group. “These include requests for new water connections, meters, or additional meters, and situations when technicians are called to repair water leakages and some of them ask customers for transport.” ALSO READ: Over 120,000 people get stable water supply after WASAC Group repairs nonfunctional systems To address these issues, WASAC is introducing a new connection technology which allows customers to request for new connections or meters remotely, enabling them to access services without visiting the utility’s offices or interacting directly with technicians. The system also tracks the entire process, including service requests, technician assignments, and any delays. “A smart meter system is under development,” said Munyaneza. “In the future, customers will acquire new meters and other services without coming to our branches or consulting technicians. We’ll be able to monitor the process, from the time of request to service delivery, ensuring transparency and accountability while reducing opportunities for corruption.” ALSO READ: Rwanda needs $400m to meet water demand by 2050 Smart meters will also modernise how water usage is tracked and billed. These meters contain embedded technology that allows technicians to record water usage remotely from a range of 100 to 500 metres, eliminating the need to enter customers’ homes. Customers will receive their bills through the WASAC website or other digital platforms. Munyaneza encouraged users to share their details to facilitate the implementation of this system. Another step is the introduction of SCADA software, designed to monitor water networks. This technology will detect leaks, monitor water quality, and oversee service levels in real time. Although it was introduced in 2023, its implementation was delayed due to high costs. However, a new partnership is set to accelerate its development. “SCADA will enable us to detect and fix leaks promptly and monitor whether technicians address issues on time,” Munyaneza said. “This will enhance service quality, reduce water loss, and improve accountability. Delays in fixing leaks have been flagged as significant failures, and under new labour regulations such delays could lead to disciplinary action, including dismissal,” he added. ALSO READ: Rwanda: AfDB approves over $270m for water access, sanitation In addition to technological upgrades, WASAC is addressing operational issues such as transport costs for technicians. Customers often covered these costs, something which was seen as a form of corruption. Munyaneza confirmed that WASAC now funds technicians’ transport expenses to eliminate such practices. Some of these technologies were initially introduced before the Covid-19 pandemic but were later suspended. They are now being reinstated, alongside new measures, to enhance efficiency and combat corruption.
